Thomas Knightly holds the position of Pipe-Major for the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band. Mr. Knightly was born in Springfield, Massachusetts and is a life long resident of Chicopee, Massachusetts. He was educated in the Chicopee Public schools and graduated from Chicopee Comp in 1976. He graduated from North Adams State College with a dual degree in Biology and Medical Technology, with a minor in Music. Mr. Knightly graduated from the Holyoke Hospital School of Medical Technology where he has been employed in the clinical laboratory since 1980.

Tom’s introduction to a musical instrument began when he was in sixth grade when he began taking piano lessons. Eventually he picked up the trombone in high school.

Tom has had a lifelong interest in the bagpipes. As a child he heard the Holyoke Caledonian Kiltie Band play at an aunt’s Forth of July party. After a co-worker, Joan Griffin, convinced him he took up the bagpipes. While taking lessons to play the bagpipes Tom played the tenor drum. Aside from his many musical talents Tom benefits his band and the bagpipe community by giving lessons, most of time free of charge. He has been giving lessons for 20 years.

Tom’s generosity with his time and talent only begins with the sharing of his knowledge, he has been found all around his community playing his pipes. While his two children, Connor and Meaghan were in school this “classroom dad” was frequently found playing

his pipes at school functions, graduations and other events. He plays for various veteran’s activities and at the Holyoke Medical Center free of charge.

Tom has been married to his lovely wife Peggy for twenty years. Tom is a member of the Mt. Tom Lodge of Masons, where he is currently installed as the organist and also using his piping talents when needed for other solemn occasions. He is also a member of the Mt. Holyoke Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, in which he serves as secretary, the Holyoke Council of Royal Select Master Masons, where he serves as Recorder and a member of Springfield Commandery #6.

Tom is also a member of the Melha Shrine in Springfield and serves as the Chairman of the Hospital Fund of the Director’s unit.

Pipe-Major Thomas Knightly has demonstrated many selfless acts of kindness and surely loves to share his love of music and his musical talents because of this we are honored to recognize him with the Ed Casey “Heart O’ Gold” Award.

Congratulations Tom, and Thank You.